Description

Baron Pierre de Coubertin, better known as the ‘Father of the Modern Olympics, was born in 1863. To commemorate the 150th Anniversary of his birth Pobjoy Mint has released an exceptional new Proof Sterling Silver coin on behalf of the government of the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

The coin’s design reproduces the image taken from the medal awarded to the winners at the very first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It features the face of Zeus, in whose honour the ancient Olympic Games were convened, together with his hand holding a globe upon which Winged Victory displays the traditional olive branch of victory.

Paying tribute to the Olympic idea that continues to inspire millions of athletes around the world these beautiful coins are available in proof sterling silver and uncirculated cupro nickel. Finished to an exceptionally high standard, as befits all Pobjoy Mint coins, adding these to your collection provides the perfect way to keep the Olympic spirit alive.

Pierre de Fredy, an aristocratic Parisian, was interested in the link between sport and education from a very early age. Following a visit to Rugby, England, he identified how ‘organised sport can create moral and social strength.’ It was this approach to education that he felt the rest of the world had forgotten, and it was to be to its revival that he was to dedicate the rest of his life, leading to the rebirth of the Olympic Games. At the first modern Games, in 1896, he played a leading role before taking over the role of President of the International Olympic Committee. He remained an Honorary President of the IOC until his death in 1937.

Special sets available

To mark this anniversary, Pobjoy Mint has also issued a special set consisting of two incredible commemorative coins in a custom silver-coloured box. These beautiful collector’s coins are produced in the same design, material and diameter (48mm) as the medals awarded to the winners and runners-up at the very first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

The obverse of all these wonderful coins carries an effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS. Ian Rank-Broadley is one of the foremost sculptors working today. His effigy of H.M. Queen Elizabeth II has appeared on all UK coinage since 1998 and the Pobjoy Mint has exclusive use of the ‘uncouped’ effigy that appears on the obverse of these coins.